Thursday, January 20, 2011

Traditional Uncle-Niece Quilt-Giving on the North Pacific Coast

So now that she's seen it herself, I can unveil Niece #2's coming-of-age quilt.

Those of you who pursue The Craft have probably already seen a number of problems and figured out why they happened. But what the heck, it's soft and warm and N#2 seems to dig it.

I flatter myself that it's a distinctive design. It was, mind you, inspired by and vetted by N#2 herself, although giving it a cherry-red flannel backing was on my own initiative. It's arguably something of a contrast with Niece #1's quilt (right). But then, I've got no two nieces alike. There will be two more of these to go, and I don't expect those to look like each other, or like either of these.

I can feel your struggle! The design is really cool. It is always hard to manage your own design and pattern--the DHubby speaks of shrieks emanating from the sewing room. Some dressmaking experience has helped me from time to time. (By making a whole 61 x 90" 'background' and applying the red/black pieces, one might prevent the distortion. Basted stay-stitching can also control edges. Once the red/black is in place, you can cut away the excess black/white behind it, leaving seam allowances.) Having said that, though, look at the Gee's Bend quilts! Nobody minds the wavy edges on those, either.

I know the rule about what I'm supposed to say now, but I've forgotten the modification for when the quilter has already admitted imperfections. I had a friend who was the son of a Canadian ambassador though. He was really good at commenting on things. He'd say, "It's black and white and red! And stripey!"

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